Have you travelled with a pet or are you planning a trip this summer for the first time with your pet? Either way, there are serveral things you need to do before you set off from home. It is always helpful to have a list of reminders to take into consideration.
According pethonesty.com, the top tips for travel with a pet are:
- Do your research. Is there a vet near your final destination and points in between? Is the drinking water safe for your pet? Also, double check that wherever you are staying along the route as well as the final stop is pet friendly.
- Visit your vet before you go to make sure you are up to date on vaccines. They may also recommend additional medications or supplements to help with car sickness, anxiety, etc.
- Secure your dog, even in the car. This is especially true if they like to hang their head out the window. Also, you don’t want them to lurch forward if you have to stop suddenly.
- Go on a practice trip, even for a short period of time. This will help you find out how your pet will react to what is happening.
- ID your pet. Double check that the information on the ID is correct and up to date.
- Pack the essentials such as water bowl, leash, poop bags, treats, medications and health records.
- Modify meals. You may be able to avoid car sickness by reducing the amount of food they eat.
- Take plenty of breaks so they can take a drink and walk around.
Another good source for information about traveling with pets is humanesociety.org.
Some of these reminders are obvious, especially if you have been a pet owner for awhile, but it is always a good idea to review them.
–Tidelines Editors
(Image credit: iStock)